Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

This savory cornbread is packed with a delightful blend of sharp cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeos, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. Here's how you can make it from scratch!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 jalapeos, seeded and minced
• 1 small yellow onion, minced
• 3/4 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, or as needed

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400F (200C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven to heat up.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Slowly add in 1/4 cup vegetable oil and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.
4. Mix in the minced jalapeos, onion, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Fold in the beaten egg and buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Once the skillet is hot, remove it from the oven and swirl 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil around to grease the bottom and sides.
7. Pour the cornbread batter into the hot skillet and spread it evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Immediately sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cornbread as soon as it comes out of the oven.
10. Let the cornbread sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to melt and the bread to firm up slightly.

Cooks Notes

You can substitute 1 cup of baking mix (such as Bisquick) for the all-purpose flour if desired.

If you dont have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 327
• Total Fat: 17g (22% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (29% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 46mg (15% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 657mg (29% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 34g (12% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 10g (20% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (3% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 301mg (23% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (10% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 160mg (3% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History of Jalapeo Cheddar Cornbread

Cornbread has deep roots in American culinary history, tracing back to Native American traditions long before European settlers arrived. Early settlers adapted indigenous recipes using cornmeal, which was abundant and versatile. The addition of cheese and jalapeos is a more modern twist, emerging in the Southern United States where bold flavors are embraced. Cheddar cheese adds richness and a creamy texture, while jalapeos provide a gentle, smoky heat that transforms traditional cornbread into a lively, contemporary dish.

Regional Characteristics

This version of cornbread is especially popular in the Southwestern and Southern regions of the United States. Southwestern cuisine often highlights the use of chili peppers, and incorporating jalapeos into cornbread reflects this regional love of spice. Southern versions of cornbread may lean sweeter or include bacon, but the jalapeo cheddar variation emphasizes both heat and savory depth, pairing perfectly with barbecue, chili, or hearty stews. Cast iron skillets are commonly used to bake it, enhancing the crisp crust that is highly prized in Southern cooking.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While classic cornbread is generally mild, slightly sweet, and soft, jalapeo cheddar cornbread introduces layers of flavor. Unlike standard Southern cornbread, this version balances sweetness with a moderate kick from jalapeos and a sharp, tangy note from cheddar cheese. It also differs from Mexican-style cornbread, which often uses masa harina and can be denser or spicier. The combination of melted cheese and diced peppers makes this cornbread distinct, offering both texture and a bold, savory taste.

Typical Serving Occasions

Jalapeo cheddar cornbread is frequently served as a side dish at barbecues, chili cookouts, or family dinners. Its sturdy texture makes it ideal for soaking up sauces or accompanying beans, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. It can also be enjoyed on its own, warm from the skillet with a pat of butter, or turned into muffins for casual snacking. Its adaptability has made it a favorite at potlucks and festive gatherings, where it adds both color and flavor to the table.

Interesting Facts

Cheddar cheese in cornbread first gained popularity in the mid-20th century as commercial cheeses became widely available in the United States. Jalapeos, native to Mexico, were integrated into American recipes through regional fusion cooking. Interestingly, the heat level of the cornbread can be easily adjusted: including seeds increases spiciness, while removing them keeps the flavor milder. Additionally, baking in a cast iron skillet is more than traditionit enhances the Maillard reaction, creating a golden, crisp crust that many chefs believe is essential for the perfect cornbread experience.

FAQ about Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread Recipe

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